Article #2 - Appling for a Credit Card
Applying for a Credit Card is quite a simple process, but it is worth knowing what they do and what you need to do to make it as easy as possible.
The Credit Card company is effectivley a lender. As such the lender will require certain personal information, including: your earnings or income, how much your outgoings are as well as any existing debt into account. Existing debt will include current loans, overdrafts and even amounts outstanding on existing Credit Cards. Most importantly they will also carryout a credit check to establish your credit worthiness and if you have any hiostorical credit problems.
It is important that you keep abreast of your credit history. There can sometimes be errors with your credit history and by checking from time to time you’ll be able to spot any problems that could potentially prevent you from making a successful credit card application.
You can check your credit history through a number of companies such as Experian or Equifax. There is normally a charge for such a check, but it is certainly worthwhile considering.
CreditExpert from Experian is the UK’s leading online consumer credit monitoring and identity fraud prevention service. Currently Consumers get FREE and unlimited online access to their credit report for 30 days, plus you receive advice and tips on how to manage and improve your credit rating. Its FREE so why not give it a try - click here to read more.
So What about If you have a poor credit history?
Having a poor credit history will effect your ability to secure a credit card. However, all is not lost. While the range of credit cards available to you may be somewhat limit, there is normally a viable alternative. Some Credit Card companies will still offer you a credit card but on slightly different terms. For example they may offer a card based on a higher higher interest rate and perhaps coupled with a lower spending limit. The Vanquis Credit Card is a n example of such a credit option. They will consider people who have had CCJ's or a poor credit history.
What If you have no credit history at all?
There is no doubt, your ability and even choice of Credit Card will be limited if you do not have an existing credit history. If you have never had a loan, hire purchase agreement or credit card, then you need to think laterally to create a history in order to secure a credit card.
This may not be as difficult as it sounds. For exaple, if you have a bank account then your first port of call should be to consider taking a Credit Card from your bank. The interest rate and other features may not be as attractive as other Credit Cards, but in getting such a card, it will create that all important credit history. You may even consider getting such a card and using it sparingly, until such time as you can apply for your prefered cred card from another supplier.
>>> See other Credit Card Guide Articles
|
